Mandela grandson's rape case temporarily stood down

A grandson of late former president Nelson Mandela appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Friday, where he faced a charge of rape.

A grandson of late former president Nelson Mandela appeared in the Johannesburg Magistrate's Court on Friday, where he faced a charge of rape.

Wearing a brown jacket and tight dark pants, the 24-year-old man, who may not be named until he has pleaded, stood in the dock as Magistrate Pieter du Plessis explained that evidence presented during his bail application may affect his trial, if the matter made it to trial.

Through his lawyer Nico Swart, the accused indicated he wanted to proceed with his bail application.

He faced a Schedule 6 offence as his alleged victim is 15-years-old.

The matter was temporarily stood down to give Swart time to obtain the accused's affidavit from a colleague. According to the charge sheet, he faced a charge of rape, attempted rape and sexual assault.

Supporting him in court on Friday were family members Ndaba, Ndileka and Makaziwe Mandela.